The authority confirmed a number of its contractors have been abused whilst undertaking the task
Union Jacks will be removed from the Transport for London (TfL) network if unauthorised, bosses have confirmed. A number of these flags, as well as of the St George’s Cross, have appeared on the UK’s streets in recent months, sparking a debate about patriotism and provocation in a time of racial tension.
Hina Bokhari, a Liberal Democrat member of the London Assembly, worries displays, particularly those on roads outside Merton Council, impact community cohesion within the capital. In response to her concerns, TfL affirmed removing ‘unofficial’ material is a long-standing policy.
A statement reads: “We understand the concern these unauthorised displays have caused. London’s streets must be safe and welcoming for everyone, and TfL will not tolerate behaviour that undermines that principle.
“Our contractors are responsible for maintaining the lighting columns and other infrastructure where some of these flags have been attached. It is our long-standing policy to remove all unauthorised displays from our infrastructure – this includes unauthorised flags, a range of graffiti, posters and other materials. It is important we apply this principle fairly and consistently.”
In the same letter, the transport authority disclosed that contractors removing flags had been subject to threats. Councils in Hertfordshire and Maidenhead have also been forced to call in police after their staff also reportedly faced abuse.
TfL is now working with the Metropolitan Police to identify people who target city contractors. The statement continued: “We are working closely with our contractors and the Metropolitan Police to establish safe ways to remove unauthorised objects across our network, in line with our policy.
“Our contractors have faced abuse and aggression while carrying out such work and we take any instances of this extremely seriously. With the support of the Police, we will investigate any individuals who target our contractors carrying out their duties.”
Ms Bokhari welcomed the decision, believing the ‘aggression’ shown to workers shows ‘”what these flags really represent”. She said: “Some argue that the unauthorised flags are about patriotism or celebration but if TfL employees are met with threats by simply enforcing the rules, the “flaggers” expose their true intent which is intimidation and division.
“No worker should face abuse or intimidation for doing their job. The distinction is clear: lawful displays at sporting events or civic buildings are one thing, but unlawfully placed flags that spread fear and are then defended with threats of violence are something else entirely.
“I fully support TfL and the Metropolitan Police in taking firm action against anyone who threatens contractors carrying out their duties. London must be a city where everyone – residents and workers alike – can go about their lives without fear, regardless of their background.”
Tower Hamlets Council previously took action to remove St George’s flags strung on authority-owned infrastructure. This included a number of lamposts near the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf that has been used to house asylum seekers.
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